vasamusic

VASA, a new band originating from Birmingham, Al., doesnt quite fit the mold of the typical southern band. In fact, VASA sounds nothing like the blues, jazz, country or classic rock that traditionally floats out of bars and venues across Dixieland. Thats probably because the five members that make up VASA are as diverse and eclectic as the music they make.

 

Formed in the summer of 2007, VASAs goal is to create a different kind of mainstream sound. Not only does VASA shed the image of the traditional southern band (frontman Josh Vasa has ethnic roots in India), but the bands opus draws from a wide range of surprisingly interesting influences. Percussionist Mac Kramer is an astute jazz drummer, having studied such greats as Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, Max Roach, Elvin Jones and others. Bassist Beau Treadwell was a fellow student of Kramers in the jazz department at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, but has a wide following as solid funk player. While Brad Lyons (electric guitar) adds an element of pop/classic rock with George Harrison-esque licks and mastery on the slide, Scott Clemmons provides the perfect accent to the collectives work on his Korg Triton Studio.

 

The bands musical influences range from the talents of The Beatles, Queen and Radiohead to the songwriting abilities of Paul Simon, Elliot Smith and Jeff Mangum. They also pull from the soulful elements of Stevie Wonder, Allman Brothers, Pink Floyd, Led Zepplin and The Police. In addition, VASA has influences from traditional Indian music. We grew up with lots of Indian music in the house, some classical, some Christian hymns, some movie songs, Vasa says. Indian ragas are quite fascinating; there are so many patterns and rhythms that we are not used in the American culture, such as odd time signatures. I use a few of those elements in my music and have no doubt it came from that Indian influence.

 

In addition to the music, VASAs lyrics provide an interesting glimpse into life experience. As Josh Vasa explains, Life is all about responding to the circumstances surrounding us. Whats great about any type of art is that it is an examination of life experiences. It is a response to what we go through and how were influenced, either positively or negatively, by life stuff. Being able to articulate and express oneself in any art form is such a blessing and is truly what drives our emotions and ambitions in music.

 

While the band focuses on developing its sound, honing what precise emotion